Nkwali Camp, South Luangwa National Park

Location

The park offers a diversity of habitats that’s quite unique. With everything from huge ox bow lagoons to woodlands and grassland there’s an incredible variety of wildlife within its boarders. Expect to see an abundance of hippos and crocodiles in the rivers and giraffe, elephants and buffalo on the plains. However, many come to the park solely for its indigenous lion and elephant population.

Accommodation

With only six chalets constructed with woven bamboo walls and thatched roofs, the camp offers a distinctive blend of tradition and contemporary luxury. Each lodging’s concertinaed front walls are opened during the day for commanding views over the river. Carefully spaced from one another, guests enjoy uninterrupted wildlife spotting from the comfort of their own room. The en suite bathrooms have double sinks and private outdoor showers – the perfect place to cool off or indulge in a spot of stargazing.

Dining

The camp’s restaurant overlooks a lagoon set back from the river where dining guests are often joined by elephants and other game coming down for a drink. A typical meal includes dishes such as stir-fried chicken, salads and quiches served with local apples and freshly baked bread. Large picnics are also put out for those on day safaris into the national park. After dinner, guests often gather at the camp’s bar. Moulded into a giant ebony tree, the bar is cantilevered over the river meaning you can enjoy a cold drink while watching the sun set over the water.

Facilities

Camp Nkwali’s knowledgeable guides put on a host of different tours to maximise your chance of spotting elusive animals. The popular game drives are conducted in a two-tiered Toyota Landcruiser meaning participants have a 360-degree view of the landscape. There are also bush walks and seasonal boating trips that offer an immersive experience in the surrounding woodland savannah. With such a comprehensive range of activities, it’s hard to find excuses to stay and relax in the site’s quiet seclusion. Be sure you do as each part of the camp, from the swimming pool to the bar, is designed towards giving you opportunities to spot roaming wildlife on your own doorstep.